Phase change materials in building integrated space heating and domestic hot water applications: A review
Ajay Muraleedharan Nair, Chris Wilson, Ming Jun Huang, Philip Griffiths, Neil Hewitt
Abstract
Thermal energy storage (TES) using phase change materials (PCM) has been widely investigated for various<br/>applications from very low to very high temperatures due to its flexible operating temperature range, high energy<br/>storage density, and long-life cycle at a reasonable cost. The use of PCM in building components and hot water<br/>production can reduce the building energy demand, indoor temperature fluctuation, and better demand-side<br/>management by utilising available renewable energy and off-peak electricity. This paper presents a state-ofthe-<br/>art review of the application of PCM domestic thermal heating. The classifications of TES systems, advantages<br/>of PCM over other TES systems, and the methods to overcome shortcomings of PCM are discussed in brief.<br/>Then the various novel techniques employed in underfloor heating, wall heating, PCM integration in domestic<br/>hot water tanks, and developing latent heat thermal energy storage units are extensively reviewed and the major<br/>findings of the research works reviewed are tabulated. Based on the extensive review conducted, the important<br/>factors to be considered for selecting a suitable PCM for these applications are summarised, and the commercially<br/>available PCM for the above applications are listed with their major thermo-physical properties and supplier<br/>details in the appendix.